Criminal Defence Lawyer
Nunavut Legal Aid is dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of clients within the Justice system. The Criminal Defence Lawyer will provide legal services, counsel clients on their legal options, and represent them in court while maintaining a high volume of complex cases.
Responsibilities
- Provide high-quality legal services in a cost-effective manner
- Represent clients through all stages
- Courageous advocacy on behalf of our clients
- Provide legal advice to clients
- Duty counsel, including bail
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge about criminal law and practice
- Timely file management and maintenance, as per Legal Aid requirements (this includes using computer technology, smartphones and required software)
- Data collection, including timely recording of services provided
- Remain adaptable and flexible in a changing environment
- Punctual attendance
- Facilitate knowledge sharing and best practices among colleagues
- Perform other duties and administrative tasks as assigned
Skills
- Lawyer in good standing with the Law Society of Nunavut or another Canadian jurisdiction
- Junior lawyers with 1+ years of experience are encouraged to apply
- Sound knowledge of the Criminal Code of Canada, Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, Youth Criminal Justice Act, criminal law procedures, rules of evidence and relevant case-law
- Experience in criminal law/strong advocacy skills, and interview techniques
- Experience representing clients with complex legal issues, including representing clients for bail hearings and guilty pleas
- Trial experience and experience conducting bail reviews are considered assets
- Client-focused with excellent problem-solving skills and sound judgment
- Experience working with marginalized and vulnerable clients
- Ability to learn and adapt to new or modified policies and procedures
- Strong interpersonal skills – the ability to work in a team setting, relate to other staff and manage through conflict
- Excellent communication skills
- Courtroom and trial experience
- Sound judgement and ability to work in stressful situations
- Capability with Microsoft 365 programs (Teams, Outlook, Word, PowerPoint and Excel) and other computer-based programs such as SharePoint
- Prior training, advocacy experience or demonstrated interest in Indigenous issues, addictions, homelessness and youth issues
- Demonstrated ability to use the latest communication technologies and social media
- Demonstrated commitment to social justice
Benefits
- Vacation Travel Allowance ($3000 per qualified dependent)
- Housing Allowance $24,400
- Northern Allowance ($16,000 – 18,000 based on location)
Company Overview